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A recent BloombergNEF report indicates that global energy-related carbon emissions likely peaked in 2024. While this marks a significant milestone, experts warn that the decline may not be rapid enough to meet the Paris Agreement's targets for limiting global warming.
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Eli Lilly's experimental drug, orforglipron, has demonstrated significant weight loss and blood sugar control in a recent clinical trial. Patients lost an average of 16 pounds over 40 weeks, positioning the drug as a potential game-changer in diabetes and obesity treatment. Approval from the FDA is anticipated later this year.
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As of April 25, 2025, central banks are responding to economic pressures from U.S. tariffs. The Bank of Russia maintained its key rate at 21%, while the Reserve Bank of India cut its rate to 6%. The European Central Bank has also lowered rates to 2.25%, reflecting growing concerns over inflation and economic growth.
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Nomura has appointed Matias Bercun to lead its global prime brokerage business, aiming to triple revenue to over $1 billion. Meanwhile, Argentex faces scrutiny for insufficient collateral in US dollar trades, linked to high-risk strategies with clients.
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As of April 24, 2025, the average rate for a 30-year mortgage has decreased to 6.81%, down from 6.83% last week. This decline follows a period of fluctuating rates influenced by global economic factors, including U.S. Treasury yields and trade tensions. The 15-year fixed-rate mortgage also saw a drop to 5.94%.
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As of April 24, 2025, young investors are increasingly entering the market, with Gen Z starting at an average age of 19. However, market volatility and trade tensions are causing caution among some, as experts recommend strategies like dollar-cost averaging. The bond market's instability raises concerns about the U.S. as a safe investment haven.
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Japan has begun importing South Korean rice for the first time in decades due to a significant domestic rice shortage and soaring prices. The initial shipment of 2.2 tons sold out quickly, reflecting a shift in consumer perception towards foreign rice amid ongoing price hikes in Japan.
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Tesla's production of the Optimus humanoid robot is facing delays due to supply chain issues related to rare-earth magnets sourced from China. CEO Elon Musk indicated that new export licensing requirements from China are complicating the situation, impacting not only Tesla but also various industries reliant on these materials.
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As of April 21, 2025, Bank of Japan (BOJ) officials are closely monitoring the impact of U.S. tariffs on Japan's economy. While they anticipate potential delays in achieving price targets, their economic projections remain stable for now, pending further data from upcoming U.S.-Japan trade talks.
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Recent studies reveal promising developments in cancer treatment, including the potential of statins to improve survival rates in blood cancer patients and metformin's role in preventing acute myeloid leukaemia. Additionally, research on arginine metabolism in breast cancer and a novel hydrogel for cancer stem cell reprogramming highlight innovative approaches in oncology.
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On April 19, 2025, Japanese minesweepers Bungo and Etajima made a historic port call at Cambodia's Ream Naval Base, marking the first foreign military visit since its recent expansion. This visit underscores Japan's efforts to strengthen ties with Cambodia amid concerns over China's influence in the region.
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Ryan Gosling's standalone film 'Star Wars: Starfighter' is confirmed for May 2027, while the second season of 'Andor' premieres on April 22, 2025. Creator Tony Gilroy emphasizes creative freedom in storytelling, focusing on the revolutionary themes within the Star Wars universe.
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The Balikatan military exercises between the U.S. and the Philippines commenced on April 21 and will run until May 9, 2025. Approximately 9,000 U.S. troops and 5,000 Filipino soldiers are participating, utilizing advanced weaponry amid rising tensions with China over regional security. The exercises aim to enhance military readiness and interoperability.
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Recent stories highlight the evolving culinary landscape in Asia, featuring chefs like LG Han redefining Singaporean cuisine and Dutch chef Stoop's innovative tasting menu in Hong Kong. Additionally, social media influencer Deng Chenen's extreme eating habits spark debate on health and cultural representation.
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US Vice President JD Vance is in India for discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on a bilateral trade agreement. The talks aim to enhance economic ties and address ongoing tariff tensions, with a goal of doubling trade to $500 billion by 2030. A paused 26% tariff on Indian goods looms as a deadline approaches.
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Michael McMahon, a former NYPD officer, was sentenced for his role in a Chinese campaign to pressure a dissident to return to China. Convicted in 2023, he claimed he was misled about the nature of his investigation. The case highlights tensions between the U.S. and China over transnational repression.
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The International Monetary Fund has downgraded global growth forecasts due to President Trump's recent tariff increases, which have created uncertainty for U.S. businesses and prompted retaliatory measures from other countries. The IMF now expects U.S. growth to slow significantly in 2025, raising inflation concerns as well.
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Casely is recalling approximately 429,200 Power Pods due to overheating lithium-ion batteries, which have caused six minor burn injuries. Consumers are advised to stop using the chargers and contact Casely for a free replacement. The chargers were sold online from March 2022 to September 2024.
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Max Verstappen faced a five-second penalty during the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, impacting his race outcome. Despite finishing second, concerns about his future with Red Bull have emerged following a disappointing performance in Bahrain. Verstappen's comments reflect frustration with team dynamics and FIA regulations.
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Shohei Ohtani announced the birth of his daughter on Instagram, expressing gratitude to his wife, Mamiko Tanaka. The Los Angeles Dodgers placed Ohtani on the paternity list, allowing him to miss up to three games. Ohtani has been performing well this season, hitting .288 with six home runs.
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Japan is engaged in tariff negotiations with the U.S., aiming to ease trade barriers and strengthen bilateral relations. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba's government is exploring concessions on safety standards and increasing rice imports as part of its strategy. The discussions follow a recent pause on tariffs announced by the U.S.
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On April 22, 2025, various governments announced new measures to combat online fraud, including revisions to laws governing bank accounts used in scams. Authorities in Abu Dhabi and Hong Kong reported significant fraud cases, urging public vigilance against deceptive online schemes.
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China's Commerce Ministry has issued a stern warning against any foreign agreements that compromise its interests amid escalating trade tensions with the U.S. The ministry condemned U.S. tactics as unilateral bullying and vowed to take countermeasures if necessary. This follows reports of the Trump administration pressuring allies to limit trade with China for tariff exemptions.
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On April 21, 2025, China's Ministry of Commerce issued a stern warning against any country negotiating trade deals with the U.S. that compromise China's interests. This statement escalates tensions in the ongoing trade war, where the U.S. has imposed tariffs of up to 145% on Chinese imports, prompting retaliatory measures from Beijing.
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Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang met with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba to discuss Japan's potential in AI development, emphasizing the need for increased energy infrastructure. Huang's visit follows recent tensions over US semiconductor restrictions affecting Nvidia's operations in China.
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The risk of Powell’s firing is eroding investor confidence in US assets.
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A partnership between companies will see AI-driven vans tested on roads in Los Angeles later this year, with a commercial launch planned for next year. This follows the opening of a test center in Yokohama, Japan, marking the company's fourth market.
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Japan is engaged in tariff negotiations with the U.S., as Suntory's CEO expresses concerns over the current tariff situation. The Japanese government is preparing for a second round of talks following initial discussions in Washington, aiming to address trade barriers and reduce tariffs impacting Japanese exports.
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The IMF has revised its global growth forecast down to 2.8% for 2025, citing the impact of U.S. tariffs and economic uncertainty. U.S. growth is projected at 1.8%, with recession odds rising to 37%. The report highlights a significant slowdown in major economies, including the UK and China.
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As of April 24, 2025, President Trump's administration is under pressure to finalize trade agreements amid a 90-day pause on tariffs. Despite claims of rapid progress, experts warn that achieving meaningful deals within this timeframe is unlikely, with significant economic implications looming.
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Al-Hilal advanced to the semifinals of the AFC Champions League Elite after a commanding 7-0 victory over Gwangju FC on April 25, 2025. The Saudi team showcased their strength with early goals and continued dominance, setting the stage for a potential fifth continental title.
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Nippon Life Insurance and MUFG Bank have eliminated a clerical job category predominantly held by women, aiming to enhance career advancement opportunities. This change reflects Japan's efforts to address gender pay disparities, particularly in the financial sector, where women earn significantly less than men.
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Tokyo's consumer prices rose 3.5% in April, up from 2.9% in March, driven by higher food and energy costs. This increase surpasses economists' expectations of 3.2%. The data, released by the Ministry of Internal Affairs, indicates ongoing inflationary pressures amid global economic uncertainties.
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On April 24, 2025, SK Hynix reported a significant rise in operating income and revenue, driven by demand for high-bandwidth memory (HBM) amid macroeconomic uncertainties. Montage also posted impressive growth, attributing its success to the AI sector. Both companies are navigating challenges from US tariffs and competition in the semiconductor market.
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Global stock markets surged on April 25, 2025, following President Trump's remarks about reducing tariffs on China and his assurance that he would not fire Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq saw significant gains, while Asian markets also responded positively. However, uncertainty remains regarding future economic policies.
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Nintendo's upcoming device has generated unprecedented interest, with 2.2 million applications for its lottery sale in Japan alone. Retailers like Walmart, Best Buy, and Target have already sold out of pre-orders ahead of the June 5 release date.
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Japan is actively negotiating with the US to secure tariff relief while balancing its economic ties with China. As the US imposes tariffs, Japan seeks to finalize a trade agreement before the G7 summit in June, amid concerns over its economic stability and relations with both superpowers.
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The third episode of 'Andor' Season 2 features the franchise's first reference to sexual assault, leading to backlash from some fans. Adria Arjona, who plays Bix Caleen, discusses the challenges of filming the scene and its significance within the 'Star Wars' universe.
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Two US Marines stationed in Okinawa are under investigation for alleged sexual assaults. One is accused of raping a woman at a military base last month, while the other allegedly assaulted a woman in January. Local authorities are urging the US military to enhance preventive measures against such incidents.
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Stephen Hayes Dacus, the prospective CEO of Seven & i Holdings, addressed reporters in Tokyo, discussing the company's growth and investment strategies. He emphasized a careful review of options, including a potential acquisition by Alimentation Couche-Tard, while aiming to innovate and adapt 7-Eleven's global operations. Shareholder approval for his appointment is pending in May.